This is the final part of our guide to burrs, where we will cover some of the shapes and profiles which don’t fall directly into the stone setting category. It is worth noting however, that the way in which burrs are used is completely open to your own interpretation, so don’t feel restricted in any way by the descriptions provided here. We are simply trying to get you started … [Read more...]

Having already discussed burr materials in the first part of this blog series, parts two and three will focus on the varying shapes of Busch burrs and the jobs that they are intended for. We will cover shapes and cuts, and try to make some sense and order out of the vast selection out there.
Many burrs are primarily associated with the tasks involved with creating and … [Read more...]

Choosing a burr from the huge selection available is no easy task. There are shapes, sizes and materials to think about, as well as considering the purpose and metal best suited for each design. It’s not surprising that many customers are confused about burrs, and resort to decisions based on price, availability or even worse, they just give up altogether.
We have put … [Read more...]

Stepping into the world of advanced jewellery-making requires a lot of patience and a deeper understanding of the intricacies that come along with perfecting your designs, especially when it comes to different types of polishing compounds and the jewellery polishing process.
Polishing compounds. Jeweller’s rouge. Buffing wheels and mops – there’s so much to discover as part … [Read more...]

Copper tones have been enjoying enormous popularity for some time now in fashion, accessories and interiors, but in the run up to Christmas how can it compete with the more traditional colour schemes of silver and gold?
The overwhelming draw of copper is its intense warmth, and with temperatures dropping below zero outside, warmth is what we are all craving – so it’s a great … [Read more...]

Traditional enamelling in simple terms is the fusing of tiny glass particles with heat to form a solid layer of colour onto a metal background. It can be matt, shiny, opaque or translucent, and comes in a wide selection of colours and finishes. There are a number of different techniques which can be used to actually apply the enamel, a selection are listed below: … [Read more...]

A textured metal finish can be achieved in a variety of different ways and can take a number of days or a matter of minutes to obtain, depending on your technique of choice. Advances in materials and product development mean that it is now possible to achieve texture using a series of shortcuts, such as pre-textured plates and shaped hammers which were simply not available … [Read more...]

By Jo Varney
I recently wrote an article based on some experiments I completed, based around setting Swarovski Gemstones™ into PMC. The results were mixed but essentially successful, however during my research I read much on the general consensus that CZs (Cubic Zirconia) are safe to set directly into precious metal clay, so I have now put this to the test. Read on … [Read more...]

Do you frequently use polymer clay in your jewellery making? And find that you’re a little tired of the moulds you re-use time and time again? For a fresh take on your polymer clay pieces, consider learning how to make your own silicone moulds for polymer clay pieces at home. This will give you a way of producing new, unique polymer clay pieces, and help you add a new skill to … [Read more...]

Using a polishing mop is a vital technique required by all jewellers who work primarily with precious metals, and it’s a technique that requires a lot of practice to master.
Whether you’re just starting out, or you’re a seasoned jewellery maker looking for some extra tips, read our guide on how to use a polishing mop effectively. Once mastered you can polish and enhance the … [Read more...]

About Cooksongold

Cooksongold is the UK's largest one-stop shop for the jewellery maker with over 17,000 products including a huge stock of silver, gold, palladium and platinum bullion cut to your requirements (sheet, wire, tube, solder, grain, settings) as well as huge ranges of findings, loose and finished chain, gemstones, ring blanks, jewellery making tools, silver clay, beading materials and much more.